Thursday, October 31

Preview: Italeri's four releases of November...

Italeri has four releases slated for November (five if you include the Lancia Stratos we previewed this week). We have the sprues, art, colours & decals in our preview...


Preview: Italeri's four releases of November...

Sd.Kfz.184 Panzerjager Tiger (P) "Elefant" 
From Italeri
No #211
1/35th scale
Model Dim.24,2 cm
The heavy tank destroyer Elefant was developed during World War II for the Wehrmacht's anti-tank units. The first production models were built using the VK 45.01 (P) chassis and were initially named "Ferdinand" in honour of the famous designer Ferdinand Porsche. Heavily armoured and equipped with the powerful 88 mm. gun, capable of destroying enemy tanks at long range, they made their debut at the Battle of Kursk, the largest “clash of tanks” in history. 

The decals supplied in this kit
The marking choice in this kit
However, the vehicle's design had limitations in mobility, speed, and technical reliability, which affected its performance at Kursk. The Ferdinand units still in service by the end of 1943 were upgraded with improvements and modifications to the new standard, under the final designation "Elefant."

The parts of the kit


Bastogne Siege 80 Years - BATTLE SET
From Italeri
No #
1/72nd scale
On December 16, 1944, the German army launched a major offensive through the dense Ardennes forest in Belgium, codenamed “Wacht am Rhein.” The city of Bastogne, a crucial road junction and significant logistical center, was one of the primary objectives of the strategic plan. The Belgian town and its surrounding areas were encircled by German forces, effectively isolating a large number of American troops within the pocket. 

The marking choices in this kit
The decals supplied in this kit
These troops withstood numerous enemy assaults for several days under adverse weather and environmental conditions. The resistance of the 101st Airborne Division “Screaming Eagles” was legendary. On December 26, the siege was lifted by a counteroffensive from several armoured divisions of the U.S. Third Army, under the command of General George Smith Patton.

The parts of the kit - signs, sandbags, posts, barrels & boxes
A Panther tank
A Sherman is also in the box
Soldiers from both German & US sides
The buildings are made mostly from laser cut wood flat packed in the box.
The completed kit by Simon Antelmi


SCANIA T 143M 500 Topline
From Italeri
No #0736 
1/24th scale
Model Dim.24,0 cm
The Scania 143 M500 Topline truck is an icon in the history of commercial and industrial vehicles. Produced by the renowned Swedish manufacturer in the 1990s, it is known for its reliability and robustness. The 143 M500 Topline model was equipped with a powerful 500-horsepower V8 engine, paired with a 16-speed transmission, which provided it with excellent performance even over long distances. The Topline configuration featured a high, spacious cabin, ensuring a high level of comfort during journeys. 

The decals supplied in this kit
The marking choice in this kit
Technological innovations such as the advanced braking system and air suspension contributed to the vehicle’s safety and stability. The Scania 143 quickly achieved commercial success due to its efficiency and load capacity, playing a crucial role in road logistics and heavy transport during that period. Even today, many years after production ended, it is still remembered by truck drivers for its road capabilities and driving comfort.

The parts of the kit


P-47D Thunderbolt
From Italeri
No #2835
1/48th scale
Model Dim.22,9 cm
The Republic P-47D Thunderbolt undoubtedly holds a significant role in the history of military aviation. This single-seat, low-wing American fighter-bomber was notable for its powerful Pratt & Whitney R-2800 radial engine, which produced over 2,000 HP, enabling it to achieve remarkable speeds, particularly at higher altitudes, and to offer extraordinary operational flexibility. 

The decals supplied in this kit
The marking choice in this kit
The P-47 was effective both as a fighter, providing escort to bombers, and as a lethal aircraft for ground support and attack missions. Its airframe was exceptionally robust, and it was heavily armed with eight 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine guns. Additionally, it could be equipped with bombs and rockets to enhance its offensive capabilities. The P-47 was successfully employed by the United States from 1943 onwards across various operational theatres.

The plastic parts of the kit

These should be in shops this month. For more on Italeri's kits, check out their website...